Class III Officers

North Caldwell School District Class III Officers

Our Commitment to School Safety

The North Caldwell School District is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for all students. As part of a comprehensive approach to school safety, the district is introducing Class III School Safety Officers to support our schools 

What Is a Class III School Officer?                                                                                       Class III School Safety Officers are retired law enforcement officers who are specially trained and certified under New Jersey law to work in school environments. Their training includes school safety procedures, emergency response, and age-appropriate interaction with students.

Why is the North Caldwell School District introducing Class III officers?                        While our schools remain safe, the district continuously evaluates ways to strengthen safety and preparedness. In response to community engagement, collaboration, and strong support, the district is introducing a Class III officer as a proactive measure to enhance security, coordination, and peace of mind for students, staff, and families.

What Will the Role of the Class III Officer Entail?                                                               Class III officers help keep our schools safe and prepared, while being a friendly, reassuring presence. They build positive relationships with students and staff and work closely with school leaders and local law enforcement. 

Are Class III officers trained to work with children?                                                            Yes. In addition to their law enforcement experience, Class III officers receive training specific to working in school settings and understanding the developmental needs of children.  They will meet daily with administration.

Will officers interact with students during the school day?                                                Yes. Officers are encouraged to engage positively with students, greet them, and build trusting relationships as another supportive adult in the school community. You can expect to see them during morning arrival, recess, dismissal, and throughout the school day.  Both officers will rotate between both Gould and Grandview initially to become familiar with both campuses, their respective security procedures, the staff and of course the students.

Will Class III officers be involved in student discipline?
No. Student discipline remains the responsibility of school administrators and staff. Class III officers focus on safety and support.

Will Class III officers be armed?                                                                                                 In alignment with New Jersey law and district policy, Class III officers may carry firearms as part of their responsibilities, in conjunction with and under the direct supervision of the North Caldwell Police Department. They will be dressed in North Caldwell Police Department issued polos. Thoughtful and comprehensive safety protocols will be carefully reviewed and followed daily. 

How does this impact the school climate?
The district’s goal is for officers to be a reassuring, supportive presence that contributes positively to the school environment while maintaining our focus on learning, achievement and student well-being.

Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns?
Families are encouraged to contact their school principal or the Superintendent with any questions regarding this initiative.
 

Our Shared Message
Our school remains a safe and supportive environment. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness, the district has added a Class III School Officer to support students, staff, and families.

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How Teachers Will Talk With Students (By Grade Band)

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Pre-K–Kindergarten

Key Message:
 The officer is a friendly helper who keeps everyone safe.

Language Teachers Will Use:

• Helper
   
• Safe
   
• Friendly adult
   

What Students Will Hear From Their Teachers:

• “You may see a new grown-up in our school who helps keep everyone safe.”
   
• “They are here to help, just like teachers and principals.”
   
• “You can say hello, just like you do with other grown-ups at school.”
   

What Teachers Will Avoid:

• Words like police, weapons, or emergency scenarios
   

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Grades 1–2

Key Message:
 The officer is part of the school team and helps keep the school safe.

What Students Will Hear From Their Teachers:

• “Our school has a safety officer who helps keep everyone safe.”
   
• “They work with our teachers and principal.”
   
• “Their job is not to give consequences or punish students.”
   
• “They help during arrival, recess, dismissal, and drills to make sure our school is prepared.”
   
• “It’s okay to say hello or ask them for help if you feel unsafe.”
   

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Grades 3–4

Key Message:
 The officer supports safety and preparedness and is a positive role model.

What Students Will Hear From Their Teachers:

• “You may notice a Class III School Safety Officer in our building.”
   
• “They are trained to work in schools and help with safety and emergencies.”
   
• “They do not handle everyday student discipline—that is still the role of teachers and administrators.”
   
• “They are here to support students and help everyone feel safe.”
   
• “You may see them during arrival, recess, dismissal, drills, or school events.”
   

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Grades 5–6

Key Message:
 The officer is part of a proactive safety plan and a trusted adult in the building.

What Students Will Hear From Their Teachers:

• “The district has added a Class III School Safety Officer as part of its overall safety plan.”
   
• “These officers are specially trained to work in schools.”
   
• “Their role focuses on safety, prevention, and preparedness—not everyday discipline.”
   
• “They work closely with school leaders and local emergency services.”
   
• “They are another trusted adult you can go to if you have a safety concern.”
   

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Universal Closing Statement (All Grades)

“Our school is a safe place, and all of the adults here work together as a team to take care of you.”

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We are excited to welcome Michael “Mike” Sisco Jr. as our Class III School Safety Officer. Officer Mike brings over 30 years of experience in law enforcement and is here to help keep our schools safe, support students and staff, and build positive relationships with our school community.

Throughout his career, Officer Mike has worked in many roles, from patrol officer to police captain, and has led teams, trained officers, and coordinated safety efforts during emergencies. He is dedicated to keeping students safe, helping our school be prepared, and being a friendly, approachable presence in our buildings.

When he’s at school, you might see him during arrival, recess, dismissal, or drills, and he’s always available if students or staff need help or feel unsafe. Outside of work, Officer Mike enjoys time with his family, being part of his community, and mentoring others in public safety.

 

We are thrilled to welcome Joseph “Joe” Castellitto to our schools as a Class III School Safety Officer. Officer Joe brings more than 25 years of experience in law enforcement, including work as a detective and patrol sergeant, and has a long history of helping students, families, and communities stay safe.

At school, Officer Joe serves as a friendly, approachable adult who helps students feel secure and supports staff in keeping the school environment safe and welcoming. You might see him during morning arrival, recess, dismissal, or drills, always ready to lend a helping hand or answer questions.

Officer Joe is passionate about community relationships and safety, and he is dedicated to making our schools a place where students can learn, play, and grow with confidence.